The Apthorp in the Upper West Side of New York City offers amazing luxury for anyone aspiring to a life of elegance and splendor. Commissioned by William Waldorf Astor and designed by Clinton and Russell, the Apthorp was built to emulate Pitti Palace in Florence, Italy. Since its completion in 1908, this Renaissance style limestone structure has added an extra touch of class, a refined taste of culture, and an European influence to the center of New York City.

Situated at 390 West End Avenue between Riverside Park and Central Park, the Apthorp has always been home to the celebrated from all walks of life. The grand experience of graceful living seems to inspire greatness. In 2009, the refined residences of the Apthorp have opened their doors to envelop even more New Yorkers in their magic and grace.

Encompassing an entire block between 78th & 79th Streets, Broadway and West End Avenue, the Apthorp is an example of the best of Renaissance Revival architecture. This building has striking structural elements at its base as well as at the top. The Apthorp has two magnificent arched entrances on different boulevards. These grand entrances have impressive three-story pilasters topped by sculptural figures.

The Apthorp courtyard is the crowning glory of a magnificent building which dates back to America’s Gilded Age. The large central courtyard has elegant detail and elaborate wrought ironwork. The beauty of this circular drive-in courtyard is beyond words - complete with flowing fountains, marble benches, grand statues, and lush greenery. This wondrous courtyard creates a perfect, private, and secure world.

The interior of the Apthorp is equally as impressive in elegant style. The hand wrought period detail belongs to another era. The intricate Venetian plasterwork is evidence of its Italian connection. The residents of the Apthorp are surrounded by a vast world of elegance and amazing space. The Apthorp has 163 units with 1-5 plus bedrooms and living spaces ranging from 1500-over 8000 square feet. These luxury apartments include 4-12 rooms and feature 12-14 plus foot ceiling heights and 44 inch wide hallways.

The palatial apartments recently underwent a $30 million renovation. This conversion has transformed the historic space into a modern condo community. The residents can now enjoy the benefits of Crestron Smart Home Technology. Apthorp state-of-the-art kitchens were designed by Smallbone of Devizes. Apthorp living even comes with 24-hour concierge services.

Apthorp still maintains its grandeur while adapting to a contemporary lifestyle. Modern amenities have been added to the building without detracting from the historical appeal. In its pre-renovation state, the Apthorp already had mosaic tile floors and glass-panelled French doors plus other luxury features. The restoration therefore is nothing less than spectacular in its scope and splendor.

Living in the Apthorp is an one-of-a kind experience. Residents can customize their condos for optimum comfort. Two luxurious condos can be combined to make one spectacular space. Entertaining guests is possible on a grand scale - not to mention the spacious and comfortable living created by customization.

At this present time, the price of Apthrop luxury condos has dropped significantly - nearly 50% decrease from previous rates. Such prime upscale real estate is rarely offered at such a bargain. The time has never been better for anyone to capture a little piece of New York history for themselves. Taking up residence in the Apthorp places you at the top of your game and positions you nicely in a premiere New York neighborhood.

The luxury Apthorp condos now begin at $1,575,000. Sale prices in 2007 were at $3000. per square foot. A 1,750 square foot Apthorp apartment was selling at one time for $3.45 million. A luxury condo with one bedroom and one and a half bathrooms currently costs less than $2,000,000. - a 47% drop since last year. Now anyone can access the refined living of the Apthorp with prices in the range of $1,575,0000-$7,000,000.

This development, handled by Prudential Douglas Elliman, adds up to an extremely glorious deal. Residents of the Apthorp enjoy a neighborhood which is the center of art and music - while also probably having celebrity next-door neighbors. Brand new luxury condos simply can’t match the history, mystique, and romance of the Apthorp. Nobody wants to be just peeking through the Broadway arch when you have an opportunity to experience the luxury of the Apthorp.

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In the heart of the Upper West Side is a new addition to the neighborhood, one that is about going back in time, to a place unaffected by the financial and social woes of the world. The Pre-War conversion of 905 West End Avenue is nestled next to Riverside Park, in a century-old building far removed from the glass that comprise most new luxury developments in New York. The 13-story building will have 77 units, each crafted to provide residents with a unique sanctuary.

The building’s interior units stick to the traditional façade. Designers have carefully separated the kitchen from the formal dining room and living area, but contemporary styles pop in where they are needed. The kitchen includes plenty of modern, stainless steel appliances in addition to a microwave and Sub Zero refrigerator; these go nicely with the marble floor and granite countertops. Residents can eat and watch the clouds roll by through the large kitchen window, and then spend some time in front of the fireplace. A soak in the Master Bath’s Zuma tub is just the thing to end a long day.

905 West End Avenue is one of the only developments around to aim their marketing arrows at families with kids. Visitors of the website can see what their kids’ room might look like, or find out what kid-friendly activities are offered around the neighborhood. And there are plenty. The area is replete with places for the kiddies, including the Lasker Pool and Ice Rink, Planet Kids and a number of different playgrounds. Adults can enjoy the smooth sounds at Smoke Jazz and Supper Club, or catch a flick at one of the nearby theaters. In-development amenities include a roof sun deck and a bike room.

Buyers at 905 West End Avenue have 14 different floor plans to choose from, including two-bedroom and four-bedroom units. Halstead is marketing these apartments, along with one six-bedroom, five bath condominium of 4102 square feet that is listed at $5.53 million. Other apartments are available, including four-bedroom units with 2165-2290 square feet, priced between $2.975 million and $3.14 million, and two-bedroom units of 1636-1812 square feet, which are priced just under $2 million. This makes the average price for the units $1550/square foot. Sales at 905 West End Avenue started in April 2008.

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Inside 235 West 71st, designers have put a lot of thought into keeping the units both efficient and homey. Each of the building’s 35 units boasts solid oak herringbone flooring throughout and bathrooms with mosaic tile and marble, as well as brand-name fixtures. Couples never again have to worry about being too hot or cold because of their spouses’ climate preferences. Each unit is equipped with smart home technology, in particular multi-zoned heated and air that can be individually controlled from room to room. Tilt-and-turn windows add to convenience and overall aesthetics.

A luxury home in New York City wouldn’t be complete with some additions that are exclusive to the development. And here, that exclusive offering is family space. Besides the aforementioned roof deck, 235 West 71st has a children’s playroom for parent-child interaction, a custom-designed eat-in NEFF kitchen, complete with a window and view, and a storage room for bikes, which encourages family rides around the neighborhood.

Units of 235 West 71 have from 1930-4761 square-feet of living space, and offer as many as six bedrooms. Although many of the condominiums are already in contract, there are a few still available, with a starting price of $5.4 million for just under 2900 square feet; the highest-priced unit is $8.85 million. Common charges for the units are $5,220 per month. Brown Harris Stevens is responsible for sales and marketing.

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Friendly elegance. That’s what residents of 535 West End Avenue will think when they catch first sight of their new home. The 20-story building suggests intimidation, but the smooth, rounded brick facade says welcome. Its location on a quiet tree-lined street on the Upper West Side of Manhattan also helps create a comfortable ambiance.

From the moment residents of 535 West End Avenue step through the canopied entrance, they are met with luxury, including imported stone floors and hand-painted wood in the building’s lobby. Individual units afford a grand entrance, with a large reception hall greeting residents home. The huge dining room encourages dinner around the table, and with room to sit ten comfortably, is a great place to hold a dinner party or corporate meeting. The separate living room, by contrast, is cozy and inviting, with plenty of natural light coming from the two large windows. A large library provides a place of respite for the weary warrior.

535 West End Avenue really is for the aesthetically-inclined. Its rooms are large, but well-proportioned, and each has been diligently designed to add sensual beauty in addition to practicality. The kitchen is anything but the steamy workroom that it has come to be known as. Custom-designed English cabinetry and dark wood floors add class. A state-of-the-art French oven by la Cornue adds style with function. All that’s needed from the family chef is a little bit of creativity.

535 West End offers its residents more than the simple pleasures. With a private fitness area, his and hers saunas, a billiards room and an indoor pool, this development has everyone covered. And, a mere walk from the development, Riverside Park affords a great place to get some outdoor time. Also nearby is the American Museum of Natural History, the Lincoln Center and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.

This Lucien Lagrange development is being marketed by Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group, who has more than twenty years of experience and more than $20 billion in collective sales. Most of the units have been sold or are under contract, but there are still a few available. Units are spacious, ranging from 3,744 square feet to an immense 8,451 square feet of space for 5-7 bedrooms. Residents must be willing to pay, of course, as the available units start at $9.25 million and surpass $21.5 million.

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Located in the historic Upper West Side of Manhattan, Park Columbus is a ten-story family development, housed in a 119-unit red brick building. Its official address is 101 W. 87th Street, which puts it square in the middle of all that New York has to offer. In one direction lie Central Park and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. A few blocks away in the other direction, Riverside Park beckons. Of course, there are plenty of restaurants and specialty markets to make any food connoisseur happy. And for the little ones of the family, there’s a children’s playroom with outdoor space.

The designers of Park Columbus put a lot of thought into maintaining a calming effect in the homes when they came up with some of the designs. The kitchens emphasize smooth surfaces and muted colors; yet, these things don’t take away from the room’s efficiency. Recessed lighting soothes frazzled nerves and creates a sense of peace, whether the house is buzzing with activity or not. Luxury-name appliances like Miele, Viking, and Sub-Zero add the elegance that kitchens usually lack. Full-height pantries contribute space. Larger units also have a washer and dryer, for convenience.

The Master Bath follows the lead of the other rooms in the home. Smooth limestone walls and floors and subtle lighting make bath time almost sublime, especially with the Kohler Tea for Two Bathtub. For those who don’t want to share, the spouse can be sent to the separate shower across the way for a relaxing rain “massage.”

Park Columbus has plenty for residents to do when they just have to get out of the house. The focal point is a woodland garden with flowering shrubs, ferns and a veritable forest of birch trees. Residents may relax among the trees, or pass through them to get to the gym and lounge area with kitchenette. On warm, weekend evenings, the roof deck invites residents to sit and enjoy the unique New York breeze.

Park Columbus has a number of units still available, from studios to four-bedroom apartments. They range in size from the small and cozy 563 square-footer to the quite respectable 1,894 square-foot unit. Prices start at $643,000 and surpass $2.7 million. Occupancy is slated for Fall 2008.

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Choice is the big-ticket at Ariel, the new two-tower development offered by Extell. East or West? You choose. Both high-rises launch residents high above the surrounding buildings, with wall-to-wall windows that afford expansive views of the Hudson River and Central Park. By the numbers, Ariel East, at 37-stories tall, is six stories higher than its sister. It has 64 units, while Ariel West has room for 73 families. The two buildings face each other across Broadway, and offer a similar glass facade.

The subtle differences between the two buildings provide for extra choice. But once inside, visitors will notice that both of the buildings have similar decor and amenities. Residents choose between three different kitchen styles, termed Classical, Modern, and Exquisite. They all boast efficient, ultra-modern designs. Hardwood floors throughout, and light, cheerful colors exude warmth that’s hard to ignore.

Living in Ariel has its perks, not the least of which is the large La Palestra Fitness and Wellness Center. The developments seem to cater to families, especially those who have children. This shows itself with a children’s playroom, a basketball court, and a private theater with widescreen picture. A four-lane indoor swimming pool caters to all ages, as does the Billiards room, which for the record also has a piano and room to sit and enjoy listening to the crack of the billiard balls. More sophisticated residents will enjoy the landscaped garden. And let’s not forget the most loyal members of the family, the family pets. For them, Ariel offers a pampering pet salon.

Ariel East has a number of one to four bedroom suites available, ranging in price from $1.195 million to $2.5 million. Sizes for the East units start at 1,440 square feet and extend to 2,263 square feet, more than ample living space for the modern family. If that’s not enough, the East building also has a 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath penthouse suite, priced at $6.795 million, with more than 4,000 square feet. Ariel West, on the other hand, has two bedroom units for sale starting at around $1.6 million, and larger four and five bedroom units. These units range in price, with the largest offered for $4.0 million. The area of these units varies from 1,320-3,124 square feet.

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For those really wanting to experience the wonders of New York, this is the place to be. The Upper West Side is full of historical and cultural spots, including the American Museum of Natural History and a number of dance and music venues. Of course, being out and about doesn’t oblige anyone to go “to” anywhere, as the shady, old-neighborhood feel of the area offers plenty of tranquility for that evening walk.

As far as new developments go, Avery has pretty standard decor offerings. Brand name appliances like Sub Zero and Miele showcase the kitchen and Waterworks fixtures adorn the baths. Of course, what would such luxury be without freedom of choice? Avery allows residents to choose their own color schemes and kitchen countertop styles.

What Avery offers its residents more than other developments—and the reason behind its success—is an amenity package that doesn’t include just the basics. This development has the state-of-the-art fitness center, the full-time doorman, and even a children’s playroom. But with the help of some friends, Avery also offers a few extra perks. Through an agreement with the Lincoln Center, residents of this building are afforded special ticket privileges. The Center also curates the development’s library, which is open 24 hours a day and includes free Wi-Fi access. Avery has also teamed with Abigail Michaels, the world-famous Concierge provider, which will allow residents access to hotel-style amenities such as cleaning service and valet. Many more services are offered for a small fee.

In addition to the services offered through others, Avery also offers its own special amenities to its residents. An on-site garage means no walking blocks from the car to the house. A screening room with comfortable stadium seating premieres quality entertainment at the residents’ convenience. A gaming room caters to a more active crowd, and sports a dartboard and a pool table.

Most of Avery’s 274 one, two and three bedroom homes are sold, but there are still enough available for those people who always have to do things at the last minute. Square footage for the units range from 748 for the smaller one-bedroom apartments, to nearly 1470 for available three-bedroom, three-bath units. Prices start at $900,000 to over $2,000,000. Avery Riverside South is located at 100 Riverside Boulevard, on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.

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From the outside, Harsen House looks like an office building, rather than a place to live, with its sixteen-story façade of windows. And for visitors going into Harsen House, this illusion will continue, because designers plan to add a 5000 square-foot retail space on the ground floor of the development. The second floor is dedicated to common community amenities such as the exercise room, which comes complete with cardio machines, weights, and space for more personalized fitness instruction such as yoga.

Once past the second floor, Harsen House residents can finally see the personal side of the development. Private elevators lead them to two and four-bedroom units, mostly half-floor apartments but including a two-story penthouse and a few full-floor, four bedroom and four-bath units with over 3,000 square feet of living space. Each unit has hardwood oak flooring throughout and floor-to-ceiling windows. And considering that ceilings are 9’9” tall, this provides a massive amount of natural lighting. Although the apartments are spacious, Harsen House also allows each resident access to a private basement storage area.

On this side of town, Harsen House is among only a few with LEED certification. This means that Harsen has been designated “environmentally friendly,” an important consideration for any family with a ‘green’ attitude. Harsen House received its certification by using renewable resources, more efficient energy sources and friendlier building substances. Units are heated with hot water that is radiated around the perimeter of the building. Central air provides efficient cooling for New York’s hot and humid summers.

Each unit of Harsen House is furnished with a large capacity washer and dryer and other “snuggly” amenities such as a gas fireplace with a stone mantel, sound-insulated glass for guaranteed privacy, and pre-wiring for Internet access.

Prices at Hansen House range from $2.5 million to $4.5 million for units that have more than 1,400 square feet and plenty of outdoor space to watch the world go by. Between the fifteenth and sixteenth floors, the penthouse has over 3,200 square feet of living space, in addition to a 675 square foot terrace. In all, residents have their choice between three different floor plans.

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A glass facade isn’t the only aspect of 200 West End Avenue that separates it from its neighbors. In an area of town homes and brick co-ops, this 17 and 29-story two-building condo development sticks out like the World’s tallest man in a kindergarden classroom.

If you’ve ever been to a natural history museum, you’ll feel right at home in this development’s lobby, with its beige-toned inlaid marble and smoked mirrors. But, if you’re part of one of the 173 families that can call this place home, you’re not expecting to “fit in” with the rest of the world. This is not a cookie-cutter community. Onsite valet parking, 24-hour hotel-style concierge services and an exclusive onsite children’s playroom separate 200 West End with most other condo developments in New York. But that’s just the start of the amenities offered here. Others include a resident’s lounge, screening room, billiards room, fitness center and wine tasting room.

The interior designers of 200 West End thought big when they designed these units. Floor-to-ceiling windows and large kitchens make even the smallest units seem spacious, and views of the city or nearby river show residents that it’s not all in their heads. Hardwood floors and white-oak cabinetry clothe the gourmet kitchen, and absolute black granite countertops contrast with white marble backsplashes to give it a contemporary feel. The master bath quickly whisks homebodies to another world with its frameless glass and marble shower and deep-soaking tub.

Potential residents can choose from studios, one, two or three bedroom units. The two and three bedrooms will be housed in the higher tower of this development. As of summer 2007, just under half of the units have been sold. They range in size from a 637 square foot studio to a 2800 square foot 3/4 bedroom, and the price range is just as wide, from a $780,000 studio to a $4.6 million 4 bedroom unit with all the fixin’s. Considering its location, these prices are to be expected. Central Park is a short walk away, as are Riverside Park, the Hayden Planetarium and Lincoln Theater.

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From the outside, it looks like the typical condominium development. Its glass facade shows off the interior as many others do, and at nine stories, it doesn’t stand out from its surroundings. But one should not underestimate the beauty and sophistication that Adagio offers.

Located at 243 West 60th Street, the forty-one lucky families or individuals who find a home here will also find plenty of opportunities to enjoy their surroundings. Exotic offerings such as Ipe Brazilian hardwood floors and African Wenge woodwork emphasize the area’s cultural focus. The custom kitchen is practically imported from Europe.

If first impressions are everything, residents of Adagio will impress anyone who comes to visit. The first thing visitors see is the lobby, its Wenge wood floor throwing off a vibrant hello.  The lobby lounge, with its sandstone fireplace and comfortable ambiance, is a perfect middle ground for those important business meetings. Once the meetings are finished, it’s upstairs to your luxury condo. Each residence has eleven-foot ceilings and a fireplace for those cooler nights. The master bath contains a Zuma soaking tub and heated limestone floors. If you don’t have time to bathe, you can enjoy a soaking rain in the separate shower with rain-style showerhead.

In the way of amenities, Adagio’s offerings are nothing short of amazing. They include a 40-foot pool, a fitness center with a yoga/Pilates room, and a real English garden, made specifically for Adagio residents. But what really sets this development apart from others in the area is the sheer amount of outdoor space offered with the units. Even select one and two bedroom units have private terraces that range in size from 500-2000 square feet. In a time when space is running short, such a generous plot of outdoor space is to be appreciated. 

Adagio offers practical 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in addition to spacious penthouses. The smaller units begin at 814 sq feet, and larger two and three bedrooms surpass 2000 sq. With a post office and a library both within walking distance, Adagio has everything a family could want. Located close enough for a family walk, Riverside Park and Central Park offer outdoor recreation, while Broadway beckons and the Time Warner Center calls for you to shop. Marketing for these units begin in October of 2007. Prices start at $860,000 and reach as high as $3 million.   

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